Practicing Theology

The Language of 'Professing' Believers?

2011-11-28T08:55:00.000-06:00

Try as I may, I don't understand why professing believers in Jesus Christ attempt to "blend in" or "fit in" with the culture by adopting and using language they would never use in their own prayers to/with their professed Savior, Lord, and Father. Civil, humble, and sincere comments are welcomed. :-)

Give Thanks ~ Nov 26

2011-11-26T06:00:00.001-06:00

Today I am truly thankful to God that He has given us all we need for life and godliness! (2 Peter 1:3-4)

Give Thanks ~ Nov 25

2011-11-25T06:00:00.000-06:00

I am thankful to God for the joy of time spent with family giving Him thanks for His faithful care and provision!!

Give Thanks ~ Nov 24

2011-11-24T06:00:00.006-06:00

"I will give thanks to the LORD according to His righteousness, And will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High." ~ Psalm 7:17

Give Thanks ~ Nov 23

2011-11-23T06:00:00.002-06:00

I am thankful to God for meeting all my needs--He knows what they really are!

Give Thanks ~ Nov 22

2011-11-22T06:00:00.001-06:00

I am thankful to God for kind and caring neighbors.

Give Thanks ~ Nov 21

2011-11-21T06:00:00.001-06:00

I am thankful to God for the blessing of a warm and comfortable home!!

Give Thanks ~ Nov 20

2011-11-20T06:00:00.001-06:00

I am thankful to God for the gifted men who lead and teach in my local church. It is not common for a church our size to have such a large number of gifted men who are so capable and willing to serve and minister. We are truly blessed!

Give Thanks ~ Nov 19

2011-11-19T06:00:00.009-06:00

I am thankful to God for the thrill of anticipating our holiday 'reunion' with our oldest daughter!

Give Thanks ~ Nov 18

2011-11-18T06:00:00.010-06:00

Today I'm thankful to God that a recent medical concern turned out to be nothing to be concerned about! :-)

Give Thanks ~ Nov 17

2011-11-17T06:00:00.001-06:00

I am thankful to God for the sweet and caring ways He has given our youngest daughter! Even when she isn't feeling well, she's often sensitive to the cares or pains of others! Love you, Nina!!!

Give Thanks ~ Nov 16

2011-11-16T06:00:00.001-06:00

Today I am thankful for the opportunity to serve and work alongside others as we help LEI (Literacy Evangelism International) with a ministry project!

Give Thanks ~ Nov 15

2011-11-15T06:00:00.002-06:00

I am thankful to God for fellowship with Christian women who desire to be--and continue to grow as--a Godly wife! We encourage and strengthen each other in our 'high calling'!!!

Give Thanks ~ Nov 14

2011-11-14T06:00:00.001-06:00

Today I am thankful to God for the medical understanding and advances He has ordained--whether graciously easing our pain, or detecting need for further care.

Give Thanks ~ Nov 13

2011-11-13T06:00:00.001-06:00

I am thankful to God for the joy and blessing of corporate worship with fellow-believers who desire to obey and glorify Him!

Give Thanks ~ Nov 12

2011-11-12T06:00:00.012-06:00

I am truly thankful to God for Skype conversations with our daughter who is so far away at college!!!

Give Thanks ~ Nov 11

2011-11-11T06:00:00.001-06:00

I am thankful to God for young Godly men and women--the next generation--who are pursuing God and desire to live a life pleasing to Him! By God's grace, we have great cause to 'smile at the future'!

Give Thanks ~ Nov 10

2011-11-10T06:00:00.001-06:00

I am SO thankful that God's mercies are new EVERY morning--GREAT is His faithfulness!

"This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope. The LORD's lovingkindnesses indeed never cease. For His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Thy faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:21-23)

Give Thanks ~ Nov 9

2011-11-09T06:00:00.000-06:00

I am thankful to God for His beautiful creation--even with the severe drought we had this past summer, there are some gorgeous fall colors to see right now!

Give Thanks ~ Nov 8

2011-11-08T06:00:00.002-06:00

I am so thankful to God that, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9)

Give Thanks ~ Nov 7

2011-11-07T06:00:00.000-06:00

I am thankful that God often allows me the joy and humble priviledge of witnessing the work of His Holy Spirit in the lives of fellow-believers!

Give Thanks ~ Nov 6

2011-11-06T06:00:00.000-06:00

I am so thankful to God for the local body of Believers He has placed our family in, and we have enjoyed for more than 13 years! Few have loved me, encouraged me, and challenged me so well!

Give Thanks ~ Nov 5

2011-11-05T06:00:00.000-05:00

I am thankful to God for all the good food and drink He provides for us to enjoy, and nourish our bodies!!

Give Thanks ~ Nov 4

2011-11-04T06:00:00.000-05:00

I am thankful to God for my very dear and precious daughters!! God has given them to me (us!) as not only a GREAT joy and blessing, but also a means of sanctification as we learn together what it means to be pleasing to God.

Give Thanks ~ Nov 3

2011-11-03T17:26:00.000-05:00

I was reminded anew today how VERY thankful to God I am to still have my dear mother in my life! Over the years I have grown to see and understand how much I missed out by not pursuing and nurturing a closer relationship with her when I was younger.

Give Thanks ~ Nov 2

2011-11-02T09:53:00.000-05:00

I'm thankful to God for my dear husband. He is the only man who has ever loved me sacrificially, gently corrected me, and lovingly guided me. As I've often said, God gave me more than I asked for in a husband, more than I ever dreamed, and way more than I deserve!

Give Thanks ~ Nov. 1

2011-11-02T09:49:00.000-05:00

As I have done in years past, I plan to post daily in November sharing my thanks to God for His many blessings in my life!

I thank God for His matchless mercy in saving me over 30 years ago! It has been a wonderful life--with plenty of challenges, but not without His sovereign care and guidance!

Celebrating 30 yrs. of God's Grace and Mercy in My Life!

2011-10-19T07:00:00.002-05:00

This week 30 years ago, the Lord changed my heart, adopted me as His very own, gave me the desire to follow Him, and the ability to obey Him! Believe me, if He hadn't initiated and completed this, I would never have given Him a second thought. Here's my full (long) testimony for those who care to read how the Lord graciously took hold of me, My Testimony May ALL the glory be His.

Great Expectations?

2011-07-19T12:48:00.003-05:00

My posting has been VERY sporadic in recent months--even years--but here's something that's been rolling around in my head for a very long time;

What if, upon arriving at your usual church one Sunday morning you discovered that all was gone except for one willing and able-minded preacher equipped only with a Bible? How many people would stay to hear the Word of God taught and applied? Of those people, how many would purposefully and eagerly join in worshipping God? And, how many would return the next Sunday knowing this is how it would be again?

What, if anything, might we have come to expect--or even demand--from our churches that is not supported in Scripture?

NANC certification: update on where I stand

2011-02-05T16:28:00.004-06:00

I'm thrilled to be able to say that I recently finished the theology portion of my NANC certification exam! Other than some final review, it's ready to go. Next comes the counseling portion (part two of two) of the exam. It's been slow going for me--lots of 'life' happening in the midst of studying--but I have enjoyed it very much.

Below are the theology exam questions. Each question requires an essay answer of a page to a page and a half.

Bibliology
1. The Bible is spoken of as “inspired.” What does this mean? Completed
2. What is the relationship between infallibility and authority? Completed
3. What is the Bible’s authority on theological controversies? Completed
4. Compare and contrast the Bible and its authority to general revelation and its authority. Completed
5. Many Christians today speak of continuing revelation. Relate this concept to inspiration and sufficiency of the Scripture. Relate this concept to the issue of miracles, prophecy and tongues. Completed

Theology Proper
1. State briefly the biblical basis for, and formulate the doctrine of, the Trinity. Completed
2. List and develop five attributes of God and how they relate to the believer’s life and counseling. Completed
3. State briefly the biblical basis for, and formulate the doctrine of, God’s omniscience. Relate this doctrine to the teaching of “open theism.” Completed

Anthropology
1. Who and what is man? Completed
2. What role does anthropology play in counseling theory and practice? Completed

Christology
1. Why did Christ die? Completed
2. He was “tempted in all things as we are” (Heb. 4:15). Discuss and relate to counseling theory and practice. Completed

Soteriology
1. “Justification by faith alone.” Discuss the meaning of this phrase. Completed
2. Sanctification is said to be past, present, and future. Discuss, including the idea of “union with Christ.” Completed
3. Do Christians persevere? What relationship does this have to counseling? Completed

Pneumatology
1. Who or what is the Holy Spirit? Completed
2. What role does this Spirit play in the believer’s life and the counseling process? Completed
3. Does the Holy Spirit guide Christians? If so, what means and methods does He use? Completed

Ecclesiology
1. What is the church? Completed
2. What role does the church play in the believer’s life and the counseling process? Completed
3. What is the biblical teaching on women being ordained as officers of the church? Completed
4. What authority, if any, does the church have over individuals and the counseling process? Completed

General Questions
1. Are you involved in a larger group, organization, or denomination, which disagrees with NANC’s Statement of Faith? If so, how do you differ from your larger group? Explain what you are doing to influence your group towards NANC’s position. Completed
2. If received as a NANC member, can you unequivocally sign the membership covenant? Completed

What is YOUR 2011 Bible Reading Plan?

2010-12-27T11:38:00.009-06:00

I like the Bible reading plan I've used for the past two years so much (see links below), that I've decided to do it again in 2011! What's your plan?

(12:36 p.m. - apparently the archived links to the reading plan are no longer working, I'm trying to locate active links and will post asap.)

2010 Bible Reading Plan

2009 Bible Reading Plan

"Give Thanks"

2010-11-14T06:00:00.001-06:00

I'm thankful to God for food--all manner of food!

"Give Thanks"

2010-11-13T06:00:00.002-06:00

I am thankful to God for books!!! And, I'm thankful my husband shared his love of reading with me so many years ago.

"Give Thanks"

2010-11-12T06:00:00.000-06:00

I am thankful to God for the stunning beauty of His creation!

Give Thanks

2010-11-11T06:00:00.001-06:00

I thank God for all the 'little conveniences' I enjoy--even though I could live without them (and I have from time to time).

Give Thanks

2010-11-10T06:00:00.000-06:00

I am thankful to God for the changing of
seasons--so much unique beauty, yet so 'predictable'.

"Give Thanks"

2010-11-09T06:00:00.002-06:00

I'm thankful to God for the desire and freedom to home school my children--it hasn't always been easy, but has always been 'an education' for me!! :-)

"Give Thanks"

2010-11-08T06:00:00.001-06:00

I'm thankful to God for dear friends who know me way too well (warts and all), yet love me still!

"Give Thanks"

2010-11-07T06:00:00.002-06:00

I'm thankful to God for the desire, ability and freedom to study His Word--there are places on this earth where such a thing is punishable.

"Give Thanks"

2010-11-06T06:00:00.001-05:00

I'm thankful to God for our warm and comfortable home!

"Give Thanks"

2010-11-05T06:00:00.001-05:00

I'm thankful to God for my local church--with faithful and skilled teachers, loving and giving people, and challenging and encouraging friends.

"Give Thanks"

2010-11-04T06:00:00.002-05:00

I'm thankful for my mother and that I still get to enjoy her company--including the visits to doctors, trips to various stores, and misc. errands and tasks that have become a necessary part of my days on her behalf. I understand more and more each day how precious our time is.

"Give Thanks"

2010-11-03T06:00:00.001-05:00

I'm thankful to God for my daughters!!! It's been a wild and crazy 8 years, and both the joys and challenges have been part of God's blessing. I love you both beyond what I ever imagined!

"Give Thanks"

2010-11-02T06:00:00.001-05:00

I'm thankful to God for my husband! He is so much more than I "asked" for, dared dream of, or even hope for!

"Give Thanks"

2010-11-01T06:00:00.005-05:00

Wow, it's November!!! So, as has become my habit in recent years, I will share my thanks each day here on my blog. I hope you'll consider all that you have to give God thanks and glory for, too!

I am thankful for God's saving grace and mercy. I've done absolutely nothing to deserve it nor to earn it--as if I were even able to do so!

"For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast." Ephesians 2:8, 9 NAS

Remembering Martin Luther

2010-10-29T14:21:00.003-05:00

Celebrating God's Amazing Grace To Me

2010-10-01T00:01:00.000-05:00

My life changed forever 29 years ago this month. I've posted my testimony HERE . To God be the glory!!!

O Love That Will Not Let Me Go

2010-07-10T21:56:00.004-05:00

Sometime last year I became familiar with the group "Indelible Grace". I've provided below a link to their contemporary version of a great traditional hymn on YouTube.

O Love That Will Not Let Me Go

O Love That Will Not Let Me Go
Lyrics

1. O Love that will not let me go,
I rest my weary soul in thee;
I give thee back the life I owe,
That in thine ocean depths its flow
May richer, fuller be.

2. O light that followest all my way,
I yield my flickering torch to thee;
My heart restores its borrowed ray,
That in thy sunshines blaze its day
May brighter, fairer be.

3. O Joy that seekest me through pain,
I cannot close my heart to thee;
I trace the rainbow through the rain,
And feel the promise is not vain,
That morn shall tearless be.

4. O Cross that liftest up my head,
I dare not ask to fly from thee;
I lay in dust lifes glory dead,
And from the ground there blossoms red
Life that shall endless be

"I don't attend a church--I worship God in my own way by..."

2010-07-03T13:32:00.018-05:00

Living in the "Bible Belt" all my life I've heard this statement (above) countless times--even said it myself before the Lord saved me almost 30 yrs. ago. It is a statement that gives evidence of our man-centered theology and how we create and serve a god of our own design, rather than the One True God who has revealed Himself in the Bible.

Consider this, if we as individuals do in fact serve and worship the One True God of the Bible as we claim doesn't it stand to reason that we would seek to serve and worship Him in the manner He has revealed and prescribed? J.I. Packer rightly points out, "The New Testament assumes that all Christians will share in the life of a local church, meeting with it for worship (Heb. 10:25), accepting its nurture and discipline (Matt. 18:15-20; Gal. 6:1), and sharing in its work of witness."

So how then do we explain the fact that professing Believers make such claims and purposefully avoid being part of a local body of Believers? I humbly submit to you that there is no Biblically justifiable explanation. As a matter of fact J.I. Packer reminds us that, "Christians disobey God and impoverish themselves by refusing to join with other believers when there is a local congregation that they can belong to."

I've heard some claim that they've previously 'had a bad experience' in a church. I do not question or doubt this because of the Biblical fact that as a result of Adam's sin ours is a Genesis 3 sin-cursed world--people are going to sin against each other, it happens everyday, multiple times. Additionally, we fail to remember--and remind others--that "Jesus taught that in the organized church there would always be people who thought they were Christians and passed as Christians, some indeed becoming ministers, but who were not renewed in heart and would therefore be exposed and rejected at the Judgment (Matt. 7:15-27)."

In both cases--sinning Believers or deceived/false professors--God has clearly instructed us how we are to behave toward one another and how we are to address their sin as well as our own. Consequently, we must realize that the actions of OTHERS does not justify us separating ourselves from regular corporate worship and service to God.

I humbly ask you, are you disobeying the God you profess to believe in and profess to serve by avoiding regular corporate worship and fellowship with other commited Christians? If so, I am compelled to remind you that as a professing Believer you are commanded to do what is pleasing to God--that includes active and regular participation in corporate church life.

(If you don't know where or how to look for a Bible-believing church, leave a comment and I'll provide some suggestions for you to consider.)

Thus Saith...

2010-06-30T06:00:00.001-05:00

...Steven J. Lawson during his "Is the Bible Just Another Book?" lecture at the 2010 Ligonier Natl. conf.,

"I've read other books, this book [the Bible] reads me!"

Loved attending the 2010 Ligonier Ministries National Conference!

2010-06-28T17:15:00.006-05:00

My family recently attended the Ligonier National Conference in Orlando, FL. The title and focus of this year's conference was "Tough Questions Christians Face", here's the trailer for the conf., http://www.christianity.com/ligonier

It was 'top-notch' in every way, but two of my personal favorites/highlights were:

Dr. R. C. Sproul, "What Is Evil and Where Did It Come From?" (available here - http://www.christianity.com/ligonier/?speaker=sproul1)

Dr. Albert Mohler, "Why Does the Universe Look So Old?" (available here - http://www.christianity.com/ligonier/?speaker=mohler1)

Reason #35 Not to Sin...

2010-04-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

Because I promised God He would be Lord of my life.

Reason #34 Not to Sin...

2010-04-11T06:00:00.001-05:00

Because sin glorifies God only in His judgment of it and His turning of it to good use, never because it is worth anything on its own.

Reason #33 Not to Sin...

2010-04-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

Because my unwillingness to reject this sin now grants it an authority over me greater than I wish to believe.

Reason #32 Not to Sin...

2010-04-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

Because to sin is not to love Christ.

Reason #31 Not to Sin...

2010-04-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

Because my sin may be an indication of a lost condition.

Reason #30 Not to Sin...

2010-04-07T06:00:00.001-05:00

Because I can never really know ahead of time just how severe the discipline for my sin might be.

Reason #29 Not to Sin...

2010-04-06T06:00:00.001-05:00

Because, though forgiven, I will review this very sin at the Judgment Seat where loss and gain of eternal rewards are applied.

Reason #28 Not to Sin...

2010-04-05T06:00:00.000-05:00

Because my sin is adultery with the world.

Reason #27 Not to Sin...

2010-04-04T06:00:00.000-05:00

Because suffering for sin has no joy or reward, though suffering for righteousness has both.

Reason #26 Not to Sin...

2010-04-03T06:00:00.001-05:00

Because sin mixed with service make the things of God tasteless.

Reason #25 Not to Sin...

2010-04-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

Because sin and guilt may harm both mind and body.

Reason #24 Not to Sin...

2010-04-01T06:00:00.001-05:00

Because the inhabitants of heaven and hell would all testify to the foolishness of this sin.

Reason #23 Not to Sin...

2010-03-30T06:00:00.000-05:00

Because others once more earnest than I have been destroyed by just such sins.

Reason #22 Not to Sin...

2010-03-29T06:00:00.000-05:00

Because sin steals my reputation and robs me of my testimony.

Reason #21 Not to Sin...

2010-03-28T06:00:00.001-05:00

Because God chooses not to respect the prayers of those who cherish their sin.

Reason #20 Not to Sin...

2010-03-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

Because it is impossible to sin and follow the Spirit at the same time.

Reason #19 Not to Sin...

2010-03-26T06:00:00.002-05:00

Because sin makes light of the cross, upon which Christ died for the very purpose of taking away my sin.

Reason #18 Not to Sin...

2010-03-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

Because my sin may keep others from knowing Christ.

Reason #17 Not to Sin...

2010-03-24T06:00:00.001-05:00

Because my sin may influence others to sin.

Reason #16 Not to Sin...

2010-03-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

Because sin is a very brief pleasure for an eternal loss.

Reason #15 Not to Sin...

2010-03-22T06:00:00.001-05:00

Because repenting of my sin is such a painful process, yet I must repent.

Reason #14 Not to Sin...

2010-03-10T06:00:00.001-06:00

Because the supposed benefits of my sin will never outweigh the consequences of disobedience.

Why I'm posting this, "35 Reasons Not To Sin"

Reason #13 Not to Sin...

2010-03-09T06:00:00.000-06:00

Because sin may keep me from qualifying for spiritual leadership.

Why I'm posting this, "35 Reasons Not To Sin"

Reason #12 Not to Sin...

2010-03-08T06:00:00.001-06:00

Because sin deceives me into believing I have gained when in reality I have lost.

Why I'm posting this, "35 Reasons Not To Sin"

Reason #11 Not to Sin...

2010-03-07T06:00:00.000-06:00

Because my sin makes the enemies of God rejoice.

Why I'm posting this, "35 Reasons Not To Sin"

Reason #10 Not to Sin...

2010-03-06T06:00:00.000-06:00

Because my sin saddens the Godly.

Why I'm posting this, "35 Reasons Not To Sin"

Reason #9 Not to Sin...

2010-03-05T06:00:00.001-06:00

Because others, including my family, suffer consequences due to my sin.

Why I'm posting this, "35 Reasons Not To Sin"

Reason #8 Not to Sin...

2010-03-04T06:00:00.000-06:00

Because my sin always makes me less than what I could be.

Why I'm posting this, "35 Reasons Not To Sin"

Reason #7 Not to Sin...

2010-03-03T06:00:00.001-06:00

Because I am doing what I do not have to do.

Why I'm posting this, "35 Reasons Not To Sin"

Reason #6 Not to Sin...

2010-03-02T06:00:00.000-06:00

Because in time my sin always brings heaviness to my heart.

Reason #5 Not to Sin...

2010-03-01T06:00:00.000-06:00

Because my sin places a greater burden on my spiritual leaders.

Why I'm posting this, "35 Reasons Not To Sin"

Reason #4 Not to Sin...

2010-02-28T06:00:00.000-06:00

Because my sin never pleases but always grieves God who loves me.

Why I'm posting this, "35 Reasons Not To Sin"

Reason #3 Not to Sin...

2010-02-27T06:00:00.001-06:00

Because the time spent in my sin is forever wasted.

Why I'm posting this, "35 Reasons Not To Sin"

Reason #2 Not to Sin...

2010-02-26T06:00:00.002-06:00

2. Because my sin invites the discipline of God.

Why I'm posting this, "35 Reasons Not To Sin"

Reason #1 Not to Sin...

2010-02-25T16:03:00.008-06:00

1. Because a little sin leads to more sin.

Why I'm posting this, 35 Reasons Not To Sin

"35 Reasons Not to Sin"

2010-02-25T15:43:00.006-06:00

Though I have been forgiven MUCH, I often am blind to my own sin. Today while perusing the literature display at our church I came across of a little list that our church has made available for several years now and I decided to share these reminders here over the next month as a way of first reminding MYSELF and hopefully encouraging others!

The list is called, "35 Reasons Not to Sin" and it sets forth Biblical truths in concise yet deeply convicting phrases. How gracious that God has not left us to wallow in our sin, but instead has provided the way to be reconciled to Him, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9)

I'll begin posting the "35 Reasons" one-by-one later today. My prayer is that you and I will draw closer to the Lord as we increase in our knowledge and understanding of what is pleasing to Him!

Thus Saith...

2010-01-14T05:00:00.001-06:00

...D.A. Carson

"When it comes to knowing God, we are a culture of the spiritually stunted. So much of our religion is packaged to address our felt needs--and those are almost uniformly anchored in our pursuit of our own happiness and fulfillment. God simply becomes the Great Being who, potentially at least, meets our needs and fulfills our aspirations. We think rather little of what he is like, what he expects of us, what he seeks in us. We are not captured by his holiness and his love: his thoughts and words capture too little of our imagination, too little of our discourse, too few of our priorities."

A Call to Spiritual Reformation ~ Priorities from Paul and His Prayers

Our culture of the perpetually 'offended'

2010-01-13T11:13:00.012-06:00

Ever find yourself 'offended' on a regular basis? Apparently, 'taking offense' has become quite fashionable and a favored tactic in attempting to disarm opposition--rather than discuss, debate, seek to understand, and even resolve.

Particularly concerning to me is the tendency of professing Christians to be easily 'offended'. Read the post linked HERE and consider this insight offered by one of the commenter's, "The New Testament saints counted it a joy to be reviled for the sake of Christ, American saints organize a boycott or call a lawyer."

Heard (Read) it in the Bible Belt...

2009-12-30T21:58:00.012-06:00

"The whole idea that God is a good God can be traced back to Oral Roberts. So many Christians had the view that God is waiting to get you. Oral was the one who changed that." ~ Willie George, pastor of Church on the Move in Tulsa, OK (quote published in a six page special section on Oral Roberts in the Tulsa World, Dec. 20, 2009).

Let me say with humility and due respect for Mr. George, that God revealed and established the fact that He is 'a good God' long ago (consider the book of Genesis).

Unfortunately, those who thought/think God is not 'a good God' have sadly neglected their own spiritual health by relying on others while avoiding reading and studying the Bible for themselves. Sadly, this approach is all too common among professing Christians in our day.

Thus Saith...

2009-12-30T05:30:00.001-06:00

John Newton,

“I am not what I ought to be. How imperfect and deficient I am! I am not what I wish to be, although I abhor that which is evil and would cleave to what is good. I am not what I hope to be, but soon I shall put off mortality, and with it all sin. Though I am not what I ought to be, nor what I wish to be, nor yet what I hope to be, I can truly say I am not what I once was: a slave to sin and Satan. I can heartily join with the apostle and acknowledge that by the grace of God I am what I am!”

~ former slave trader changed by the grace of God, English clergyman, abolitionist, and composer of the Christian hymn, "Amazing Grace".

There's nothing 'magic' about a yearly Bible reading plan, but...

2009-12-26T17:00:00.001-06:00

...there certainly is great benefit and growth. For those of us who profess to be Christians, reading through the Bible in a systematic manner (via some organized plan) will sharpen our understanding of God, and consequently challenge us as we seek to please and obey Him.

For 2010 I will follow the Bible reading plan I used in 2009, "The Discipleship Journal Reading Plan".

The plan is detailed HERE in a compact brochure format, and HERE and HERE in a series of very handy bookmarks.

One reason this plan appeals to me is it allows for 25 days of assigned reading each month--leaving the extra days for either 'catch up' or further study! Of course, I'm sure I'll need some catching up from time to time, but I'm most excited about the freedom to sort of take my time when/if needed for further study on any given day--sweet! :-)

(HT Justin Taylor - Between Two Worlds)

Give Thanks ~ Immanuel, God with us!

2009-11-30T06:01:00.002-06:00

I'm thankful to God for this unique time of year when we are reminded that through His Son, Jesus Christ, God became a man in order to fulfill His promise to redeem His people.

"Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and shall bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,' which translated means 'God with us'." (Matthew 1:23)

Give Thanks ~ Nov. 29

2009-11-29T06:01:00.001-06:00

I'm thankful to God for the prospect and anticipation of the new year ahead! "This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope. The Lord's lovingkindnesses indeed never cease. For His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Thy faithfulness. 'The Lord is my portion,' says my soul. 'Therefore I have hope in Him'. The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the person who seeks Him." (Lamentations 3:21-25)

Give Thanks ~ Nov. 28

2009-11-28T06:01:00.000-06:00

I'm thankful to God that I am nearing the end of my NANC Theology exam! Now for part 2--the Counseling exam...

Give Thanks ~ Nov. 27

2009-11-27T06:01:00.001-06:00

I am thankful to God for yesterday's time with family and friends! It's not easy watching my family dwindle in number like it has in recent years--a sure sign I'm growing older. Consequently, I greatly treasure seeing my mother spend the holidays with our family enjoying the food and company--and plenty of smiles and laughs over the silliness of her grand-daughters! Life is so short...

Give Thanks ~ Nov. 26

2009-11-26T06:01:00.001-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

Give Thanks ~ Nov. 25

2009-11-25T06:01:00.001-06:00

I'm truly thankful to God that He has made His will known and accessible to us in His Word! A facet of His will is this, "in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thess. 5:18)

Give Thanks ~ Nov. 24

2009-11-24T06:01:00.002-06:00

I'm thankful to God that He, "works all things after the counsel of His will" (Eph. 1:11) and "causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." (Rom. 8:28)

Give Thanks ~ Nov. 23

2009-11-23T06:01:00.002-06:00

I'm thankful to God for the many material blessings that I too often take for granted.